Seal Beach shootings: Salon's neighbors hold fundraiser today

SEAL BEACH – Many if not most of the neighboring merchants heard the gunshots Oct. 12. A few of them ran outside and saw one of the victims, shot dead in his parked car. Others hid in their own salon's bathroom, calling police.

The shooting that left eight dead at Salon Meritage has affected the people who work in the otherwise busy but quiet shopping center off Pacific Coast Highway and Fifth Street.

On Monday, they want to help out the families impacted by the shooting.

Neighboring merchants of Salon Meritage plan to donate a portion of their proceeds earned throughout Monday to the Seal Beach Victims' Fund. And they're asking the public to come out and support the stores, from the Ark Pet Salon to Seal Beach Podiatry to McDonald's.

Participating stores include restaurants: Finbars, John's Philly Grill, Koi, Thai Siam Cuisine and Yucatan Grill. Participating merchants also range from the surrounding nail and beauty salons to professional services such doctor offices and a law firm.

Crema Cafe, at 322 Main St., also plans to participate, donating all its proceeds from this morning's breakfast and lunch to the victims' fund.

“Please come out and support these generous businesses,” Mayor Mike Levitt said in an announcement.

On Sunday, the Whole Foods markets in Huntington Beach and Long Beach had a barbecue fundraiser for the victims.

Scott Silka, an associate store team leader at the Whole Foods market on Pacific Coast Highway near Seal Beach, said at least 500 patrons picked up the $5 lunch and many others dropped off donations. A final tally is expected by Tuesday, he said.

In Huntington Beach, the Whole Foods at 7881 Edinger Ave. raised more than $600, marketing supervisor Chevonne Ching said Monday. "We had some customers who stopped by and donated but didn't want lunch," she said.